Important update: Healthcare facilities
CDC has updated select ways to operate healthcare systems effectively in response to COVID-19 vaccination. Learn more
UPDATE
Given new evidence on the B.1.617.2 (Delta) variant, CDC has updated the guidance for fully vaccinated people. CDC recommends universal indoor masking for all teachers, staff, students, and visitors to K-12 schools, regardless of vaccination status. Children should return to full-time in-person learning in the fall with layered prevention strategies in place.
UPDATE
The White House announced that vaccines will be required for international travelers coming into the United States, with an effective date of November 8, 2021. For purposes of entry into the United States, vaccines accepted will include FDA approved or authorized and WHO Emergency Use Listing vaccines. More information is available here.
UPDATE
Travel requirements to enter the United States are changing, starting November 8, 2021. More information is available here.

The Spread of COVID-19

The Spread of COVID-19
Updated Apr. 30, 2021

COVID-19 is a Virus

COVID-19 can spread easily.
COVID-19 can spread between people.
COVID-19 can spread when people are too close.
COVID-19 can spread when people cough.
COVID-19 can spread when people sneeze.
COVID-19 can spread when people talk.
COVID-19 can spread when people sing.

Stay away from crowds.
Stay away from inside places with lots of people.
Stay away from people who are sick.
Stay away from people if you are sick.

COVID-19 May Get on Your Hands

COVID-19 may get on your hands if you touch things.
Wash your hands after you touch things.
You may spread COVID-19 to animals.
Avoid touching animals outside your home.
Wash your hands after you touch animals.

Stop COVID-19 Every Day

Stay at least 6 feet away from people outside your home.
Stay away from people who are sick.
Wear a mask to protect everyone.
The mask must cover your nose.
The mask must cover your mouth.
The mask must fit under your chin.
The mask must be snug on your face.
Make sure breathing is easy.
Wash your hands often.
Wash your hands with soap and water.
Wash your hands for 20 seconds.
Sing the happy birthday song twice while washing your hands.

Use hand sanitizer if that is all you have.
Rub the hand sanitizer all over your hands.
Rub your hands until they feel dry.
Washing your hands with soap and water is best.

Original Guidance: How COVID-19 Spreads


Development of these materials was supported by a grant from the CDC Foundation, using funding provided by its donors. The materials were created by the Center for Literacy & Disability Studies, Department of Allied Health Sciences, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and the Center for Inclusive Design and Innovation at Georgia Tech. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provided subject matter expertise and approved the content. The use of the names of private entities, products, or enterprises is for identification purposes only and does not imply CDC endorsement.

Project funding ended 9/30/2021. All edits after that date are completed solely by CDC.